SACRAMENTO -
The California Air Resources Board (ARB) today announced that Akrapovic America LLC, was fined $88,000 for air quality violations related to the sale of illegal aftermarket motorcycle exhaust systems in California.

ARB investigators discovered that Akrapovic America sold, advertised and offered for sale motorcycle exhaust systems that replaced original emissions critical components, such as catalytic converters. California anti-tampering laws prohibit the sale, distribution and installation of parts that modify the emissions control systems of vehicles unless the modifications are proven to neither reduce the effectiveness of those systems nor cause excess emissions.

At the time of the investigation, ARB found that Akrapovic America had not taken advantage of an industry-requested regulation adopted in early 2009 that allows aftermarket motorcycle exhaust manufacturers to legally sell their products once they undergo an engineering evaluation to ensure that they are as durable as the emissions critical parts they replace, and meet the applicable emission standards. Parts successfully completing this process receive an Executive Order exemption that allows their sale and installation on pollution controlled motorcycles.

In announcing the settlement, ARB Enforcement Chief James Ryden notes that “California law provides a ready pathway for manufacturers to offer legal performance modifications for motorcycles as long as they still meet emissions requirements, but they must take advantage of this process prior to offering these products for sale in our state.” He went on to add that “we take seriously the sales of any products that may reduce the effectiveness of the emissions reduction system.”

Funds collected will be paid to the California Air Pollution Control Fund, established to decrease air pollution through education and the advancement and use of cleaner technologies.

Modified motorcycles that no longer meet California's emission requirements pose a significant health threat to California residents. They create higher amounts of smog-forming pollutants, which can then exacerbate respiratory ailments and negatively affect other health conditions.

ARB's mission is to promote and protect public health, welfare, and ecological resources through effective reduction of air pollutants while recognizing and considering effects on the economy. The ARB oversees all air pollution control efforts in California to attain and maintain health based air quality standards.